BWHI – Honoring the Life and Legacy of Aretha Franklin

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the Black Women’s Health Imperative issued the following statement in honor of the life and legacy of Aretha Franklin.

“The Black Women’s Health Imperative joins with our collective community in mourning the death of Aretha Franklin, the “Queen of Soul.”

While Ms. Franklin has taken her angelic flight, she has left us with so much to celebrate! From the moment she began to command our attention with her unmatched singing and timeless contributions, such as the national female anthem (R-E-S-P-E-C-T), for women – particularly Black women – to the indelible imprint she made on our hearts over five decades through her unlimited talents. We are thankful for the eternal melodies, music and memories – a lifetime legacy that she has gifted to us and will live on through us all.”